Dental implants are the best way to fix missing tooth/teeth and are now an increasingly popular option. They are a permanent, life-long, natural-looking solution to improve your teeth’ appearance and function. But have you ever wondered what dental implants are made of?
First off, let’s start with the basics.
What are Dental Implants?
They are artificial tooth roots fixed into your jawbone which supports a replacement tooth.
Dental Implants are made up of 3 parts: implant, abutment, and the crown.
The implant is inserted into your jawbone, acting as a replacement for your tooth root. The abutment is then fixed, providing a base for the crown. The abutment is the visible part of your implant that mimics a natural tooth.
Parts Of Dental Implants
Implant Material: Titanium
Usually, the material used for making an implant is titanium since it is a biocompatible metal. Biocompatibility is very important since your external matter should be well-tolerated by the human body not to cause any adverse reactions.
Titanium is incredibly strong, sturdy, and durable, making it an ideal option for dental implants. It has a unique ability to fuse easily with living bone tissue allowing the implant to fully integrate with your jawbone over time.
This leads to a stable foundation for your tooth or bridge replacement, ensuring that it stays in place and functions like a natural tooth.
Abutment Material: Titanium, Zirconia, or Ceramic
You can choose from titanium, zirconia, or ceramic to make an abutment. Every material has its own advantages and disadvantages; therefore, the choice depends on factors such as the location of your implant, oral health condition, and the dentist’s preference.
The most common option is none other than titanium. However, zirconia is also gaining popularity, as they are more aesthetically pleasing and matchable to the color of the surrounding teeth.
On the other hand, ceramics are the least popular. They are more fragile and may not be as durable as titanium or zirconia.
Crown Material: Porcelain or Zirconia
The crown is the visible portion of the implant that you can see and works like your natural tooth. The choices are more than one; you can go for either porcelain or zirconia, both of which have their own pros and cons.
Porcelain crowns are commonly used since they closely resemble natural teeth in appearance, function, and texture. They are also durable and last for many years with proper aftercare.
People are getting familiar with zirconia as they are even more durable than porcelain and can withstand more wear and tear. Moreover, they are also less likely to chip or crack, a good choice for those with a history of grinding or clenching their teeth.
Final Note
If you are considering dental implants, discuss your options regarding the material. You can always get in touch with oral health experts from AT Dental Care by dialing (408) 579-9931. Or, drop by our clinic; we are located at 1906 Aborn Rd, San Jose, CA 95121, United States.